KILLEEN, TX — The Temple Tem-Cats didn't just win on Friday night; they made a statement. In a clinical display of offensive prowess and defensive discipline, Temple traveled to Killeen Shoemaker and walked away with a commanding 8-0 victory, ending the match early via the 8-goal mercy rule margin after a relentless scoring barrage.

First Half Fireworks

Temple set the tone immediately, suffocating the Grey Wolves’ defense from the opening whistle. The Tem-Cats entered the locker room at halftime with a massive 6-0 lead, effectively putting the game out of reach before the mid-game break.

The scoring was headlined by a career night from Avery Perez, who proved to be an unstoppable force up front. Perez opened the floodgates early and never looked back, showing a natural chemistry with teammate Sterling Griffith.

The scoring breakdown showcased Temple's versatility on set pieces and open play:

Perez notched a goal off a Griffith assist.

Alaina Flores found the back of the net on a perfectly placed corner kick from Isa Diaz.

Diaz herself was lethal from the spot, converting two penalty kicks to keep the scoreboard moving.

Griffith turned from provider to scorer, burying a goal off a Perez assist.

Closing It Out

Temple didn't take their foot off the gas in the second half, adding two more goals to trigger the early conclusion of the match. Perez continued her masterclass, finishing off sequences assisted by both Griffith and Maya Ramirez.

While the offense grabbed the headlines, the Temple defense remained a brick wall. Goalkeeper Skylar Licudine earned the shutout, though the dominant possession by the Tem-Cat midfielders meant she only had to record one save on the evening.

Player of the Match: Avery Perez

It was an easy choice for top honors. Avery Perez finished the night with a staggering four goals and one assist, accounting for over half of Temple's scoring output. Her clinical finishing and movement off the ball left the Shoemaker backline searching for answers all night.

Looking Ahead

With the win, Temple improves to 4-3 in District 12-6A play, keeping them right in the thick of the playoff hunt.
The Tem-Cats will enjoy a well-deserved bye this coming Tuesday, giving the squad a chance to rest and regroup.

They return to action on Friday, February 20, for a marquee home match against Midway. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm at the Temple Soccer Complex.